Summary of Bill HR 301
Bill 119 HR 301, also known as the Geothermal Steam Act Amendment, aims to make changes to the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970. The main goal of this bill is to establish a deadline for processing applications related to geothermal leasing.
Currently, there is no specific timeline for processing these applications, which can lead to delays and uncertainty for those seeking to lease geothermal resources. This bill seeks to address this issue by setting a deadline for the processing of these applications, ensuring a more efficient and timely process for those involved.
By establishing a deadline, this bill aims to streamline the leasing process and provide more clarity and certainty for those seeking to utilize geothermal resources. This could potentially lead to increased investment and development in the geothermal energy sector, which is seen as a clean and renewable energy source.
Overall, the Geothermal Steam Act Amendment is aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the geothermal leasing process, ultimately benefiting both the industry and the environment.
Congressional Summary of HR 301
Geothermal Energy Opportunity Act or the GEO Act
This bill expands the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 to establish a deadline for the Department of the Interior to process applications related to geothermal leases. Specifically, Interior must process each application for a geothermal drilling permit or other authorization under a valid existing geothermal lease within 60 days after completing all requirements under applicable federal laws and regulations (including the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, the Endangered Species Act of 1973, and the National Historic Preservation Act) unless a U.S. federal court vacates or provides injunctive relief for the underlying lease.